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The London High Court will decide if mining giant BHP is liable for one of Brazil's worst environmental catastrophes, potentially leading to billions in compensation.

Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes hold a banner with Mariana Mayor Juliano Duarte outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison
Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes pose for pictures outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison
Victims of Brazilian dam collapse Gelvana Silva, Monia Dos Santos and Pamela Fernandes hold a banner outside City Court House, Rolls Building ahead of the final day of the lawsuit against BHP in London, Britain, March 13, 2025. REUTERS/Marissa Davison

Overview

  • The 2015 Fundao dam collapse in Brazil killed 19 people and released 45 million cubic meters of toxic sludge, devastating communities and ecosystems.
  • Over 620,000 claimants, including local governments and indigenous groups, are seeking £36 billion ($47 billion) in damages from BHP in one of the largest lawsuits in UK legal history.
  • BHP contends it was not the direct polluter, as the dam was operated by Samarco, a joint venture between BHP and Brazilian miner Vale.
  • Victims argue BHP knew about excessive toxic sludge accumulation that contributed to the disaster and demand accountability beyond financial compensation.
  • A verdict is expected by mid-2025, with a potential follow-up trial in 2026 to determine exact compensation if BHP is found liable.